Is it safe to shop online?

Like most Jamaicans I love to get a deal! However when that deal requires that you pay online my credit card I get a little bit hesitant. That’s because like everybody else I worry about safeguarding my information.

I imagine that almost everyone has an online footprint but it seems worse to put your credit card information on the Internet for anyone to see and use.

Benefits of Shopping Online

There are many reasons to shop online. The bargains and variety of products offered are amazing.  Shipping the item to your door in a matter of days minus the expensive plane ticket.

Even returns are managed with online shopping if the customer is not satisfied.  Online shopping has never been easier or more convenient for consumers. A consumer without leaving the comfort of his home can ‘shop’ all over the world.

Disadvantages

Well the biggest concern of course is security. Phishing attacks can occur when thieves attempt to swindle you out of your sign-in credentials and even credit card info by pretending to be a real website, or even an online bank.

This means that while you think you are giving your information to a legitimate source in fact all your money is gone!

Some websites also have malware  which is a malicious code aimed at compromising your privacy.

Not good news at all!

But you can be safe while shopping online!

Safety Tips

Start at a trusted site rather than shopping with a search engine.

Never buy anything online using your credit card from a site that doesn’t have SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption installed—at the very least.

You’ll know if the site has SSL because the URL for the site will start with HTTPS:// (instead of just HTTP://). An icon of a locked padlock will appear, typically in the status bar at the bottom of your web browser, or right next to the URL in the address bar. It depends on your browser.

Never give anyone your credit card over email. Ever.

Go online regularly during the holiday season and look at electronic statements for your credit card, debit card, and checking accounts. Make sure you don’t see any fraudulent charges.

There are also a number of Jamaican online businesses who will allow you to shop online with their credit card while you pay them for this service. That way you are protected and still enjoy the benefits of shopping online!

What’s your take? Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: online shopping